Tuesday, July 7, 2009

Lessons from Michael Jackson

With the passing of superstar Michael Jackson, it made me think of some lessons we can draw from his life and his death.

First, we all die, no matter who we are, how famous we are, or how rich we are. Even the rich and famous can die prematurely. Michael died prematurely, it appears, as a result of the abuse to his body from the many drugs he’d taken.

Second, we should take care of the body God gave us and not abuse it, as Michael apparently did. I’m sure he would have been with us much longer had he not abused prescription drugs.

Third, nobody is immune from the tragedies and heartbreaks of life. That’s why we need God in our lives, to uphold us through those tough times.

Fourth, Michael was once fabulously wealthy, but much of that wealth disappeared. Again, no matter who you are, you must hold to the things of this world loosely, because they can be taken from you in one way or another.

Fifth, nobody is above the law. Of course we’ll never know for sure if Michael did illegal and immoral things with children. Nevertheless, the lesson is clear: we are accountable for our actions, both to the law, and more importantly, to God.

Lastly, Michael has received many tributes and praise in the past week since his untimely death, but he’s not here to enjoy them. He leaves a tremendous legacy from his music and his charitable works, but that will eventually fade. What lasts is your relationship with Jesus Christ and what you did to glorify God. I don’t know Michael’s relationship with Jesus, but I do know that you and I should take this opportunity to draw closer to him.

Remember the words of the Apostle Peter from 1 Peter 1:3-4:

Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, and into an inheritance that can never perish, spoil or fade — kept in heaven for you. NIV

Remember also the words of Jesus Christ in Matthew 6:19-21:

“Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” NIV